Basics of Property Management: Screening Potential Tenants
3 Ways To Store Your Boat For The Winter
Jesse Obrien
Having a boat is a great way to enjoy the warm weather, get out on the water, and have family time or go fishing. Unfortunately, it also means finding somewhere to store your boat when it isn't in use. If you usually keep your boat at home on the side of your house, this might not be an option when winter hits, especially if you live in a cold climate. The following options are great ways to store your boat when you aren't going to be using it for at least a few months.
1. Store it in a Trailer
A common option when storing a small or medium-sized boat is storing it in a trailer. Keep in mind, however, most trailers will not hold large boats, so it is a better choice for the smaller sizes. Even if you find a trailer for a long or large boat, the price may not be entirely worth it. One of the great things about a trailer is that you can still store the boat at home in your driveway or backyard, but have it protected from the elements. Plus, you can get a boat trailer that hitches onto the back of your pickup truck when you're ready to use it in the spring or summer.
2. Find a Local Storage Facility
Self storage facilities are not just for storing boxes and furniture; some have units big enough for large vehicles and boats. Not all storage facilities have boat storage units, so you will need to find one that caters to this use. The facilities are often close to marinas, harbors and lakes, making it easy to get your boat from the facility to the marina when you're ready to take it out. They may also have extra features as well, such as racks in the storage unit for storing boating or diving equipment, or having a climate-controlled unit to keep your boat in its best shape while storing it.
3. Keep it at the Marina
A popular option for storing your boat when you aren't using it or for the winter season is at a local marina. If you live in a location where boating is a popular activity, you likely have a marina where other people store their boats. If it is a cold climate in your area during the winter, the marina probably offers boat covers to keep it protected from the snow and ice. Otherwise, storing it there will be safe for as long as you need to. Marinas typically charge by the size of the boat when choosing how much to charge you for the slip storage.
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For the last several years, I've used a property management firm to help with my rental properties. One of the tasks that they handle for me is screening applicants who would like to move into one of my vacant units. Their expertise has helped me lower my tenant turnover and find people who want to stay with me for years. Part of the process is a tenant screening credit check. Before any further contact takes place, my manager orders credit reports from at least two agencies. That is enough to tell us if an applicant is a good financial risk. Assuming the references work out, I meet the candidate and make the final decision. If you own rental properties, let me tell you more about the benefits of having a property manager. I'm betting you'll find this type of arrangement will work for you too.